On August 14, 2026, a seminar entitled “Scientometrics, Rankings, and Sustainable Development: Performance Evaluation” was held at Mingachevir State University (MSU) to strengthen the research activities of staff, evaluate scientific outcomes, and raise awareness of international ranking systems.
Organized in the MSU assembly hall, the seminar was conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asiman Ilyasov, Advisor to the Rector of Baku State University and PhD in Economics.
Attended by the university’s academic and administrative staff, the seminar provided detailed information on the primary scientometric indicators used to evaluate scientific activity in modern higher education systems, as well as their significance and practical applications. It was emphasized that scientific productivity should not be assessed solely by the volume of publications, but rather through quality, citation metrics, scholarly impact, and visibility across global scientific circulation.
During the training, discussions focused on scientometric metrics and foundational concepts, the evaluation of the research performance of scholars and higher education institutions, enhancing visibility in international indexing databases, and the effective presentation of scientific outcomes.
Another key focus of the seminar was international university rankings and their evaluation methodologies. Dr. Asiman Ilyasov elaborated on the role of indicators used across diverse global ranking systems in assessing the academic, scientific, institutional, and public engagements of universities. The strategic significance of ranking metrics in shaping institutional development strategies, conducting comparative benchmarking, and elevating international competitiveness was also thoroughly explained.
Special attention was given to the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into higher education governance and operations. Participants were briefed on the expanding role of universities’ social impact, environmental stewardship, strategic partnerships, inclusivity, and sustainable development initiatives within international assessment frameworks, alongside conventional educational and research activities.
Modern and strategic approaches to performance evaluation were also reviewed. The importance of systematically tracking academic and institutional metrics, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis, setting development priorities based on empirical findings, and establishing continuous improvement mechanisms was strongly highlighted.
Dr. Asiman Ilyasov shared practical case studies, addressed questions from the audience, and provided recommendations on measuring and presenting research outcomes in alignment with international standards.
Conducted in an interactive format, the seminar concluded with a fruitful exchange of views on research evaluation, the methodological nuances of international rankings, enhancing sustainability indicators, and improving institutional performance.
Notably, Mingachevir State University continues to organize capacity-building and professional development initiatives aimed at advancing the research potential of its academic staff, boosting visibility within the global scientific landscape, enhancing institutional performance, and integrating sustainable development principles across all university activities.